Irexit, #Metoo and Direct Provision to be tackled at this year's Festival of Politics

Dublin's only political festival, The Festival of Politics aims to provide a space whereby those with differing political views can engage in debate and challenge each other's perspective without the need to fight, argue or insult their opponents. It aims to foster open and thoughtful discussions around the most prevalent issues affecting society, both in Ireland and abroad. As Temple Bar Company CEO, Martin Harte explains, "the festival is made up of real people, the type you will bump into in a supermarket or your local pub, it's not an abstract debate, it's a lived-in event and it will challenge and inspire in equal measure".

This year's lineup of events will cover the most pertinent issues of today, featuring US Singer and reality TV star Jennifer Willis, a proponent of the #MeToo movement, speaking about how she escaped rape and abuse at the hands of her father and is now encouraging other victims to speak out against their attackers. Meanwhile, Donald J. Trump's campaign manager Robert Swope III will speak about the 2016 Trump campaign to be joined by journalist Larissa Nolan and a panel of experts representing all sides of the American political divide.

Also on the agenda for the 2018 Festival of Politics will be actor Stephen Rea speaking about the drawbacks of Direct Provision and former UKIP MP Mark Reckless, Irexit Freedom Party founder Dr. Ray Bassett and comedian & political commentator Grainne Maguire debating the future of the EU and the possibility of Irexit.

Additionally, 'Angry Chef', & author Anthony Warner, and activist Alice Leahy will join others for a debate on drink, drugs, fad diets and personal responsibility.

For the full line-up of events, tickets, times and dates check out festivalofpolitics.ie.